Missing man rescued by US Coast Guard off the coast of Florida
A 25-year-old man was rescued by the US Coast Guard on Saturday after he was reported missing off the coast of Florida for nearly two days. Charles Gregory, who had failed to return to a boat ramp in St. Augustine, was spotted by an aircrew in a partially submerged 12-foot jon boat about 12 miles offshore.
According to a news release from the Coast Guard, Gregory was pulled from the water by boat crews and received by EMS at Vilano Beach Fishing Pier. Fortunately, he did not have any medical concerns.
“We are pleased about the outcome in this case and I would like to thank all of our local and state partners who were heavily involved in searching for Charles and bringing him home to his family,” said Coast Guard Sector Jacksonville Commander Nick Barrow.
The rescue operation serves as a reminder of the importance of safety gear and being prepared while out on the water. Barrow emphasized the need to have a life jacket, VHF marine grade radio, signaling devices, and an emergency personal locator beacon to contact first responders in case of an emergency.
The Coast Guard had initially received a report on Friday evening from Gregory’s family, stating that he had not returned from his trip. The search and rescue mission was coordinated by Commander Nick Barrow, who expressed relief at the successful rescue operation.
Footage released by the Coast Guard shows Gregory seated in the partially submerged boat, its bow dipping below the water’s surface, before rescue crews reached him.
The US Coast Guard continues to stress the importance of safety and preparedness while engaging in water activities.